Perfect Your Stance for Better Tennis Performance

Your stance is the foundation of every shot in tennis. A solid stance improves balance, generates power, and enables quick recovery for the next play. Here's how to perfect it:

1. The Ready Position

The ready position is your neutral starting stance before each shot:

• Feet Position:
  • Stand shoulder-width apart with your weight balanced on the balls of your feet.
• Knees and Body:
  • Keep your knees slightly bent for flexibility and quick movement.
  • Lean forward slightly with a straight back, staying ready to move.
• Racket Placement:
  • Hold your racket in front of you with both hands, prepared for either a forehand or backhand.

2. The Open Stance

Used primarily for baseline rallies and when you're on the move:

• Foot Position:
  • Stand with your feet open to the net, parallel to the baseline.
• Key Benefits:
  • Allows for fast recovery.
  • Best for hitting powerful topspin shots.

3. The Neutral Stance

Ideal for controlled, accurate shots:

• Foot Position:
  • Align your feet perpendicular to the net, with your front foot pointing toward your target.
• Best Use:
  • For deep, down-the-line or crosscourt shots with precision.

4. The Closed Stance

Great for generating power on forehands and backhands:

• Foot Position:
  • Place your non-dominant foot across your body, closing your stance off to the net.
• When to Use:
  • During defensive or angled shots where extra control is needed.

5. Adjust for Volleys

• Approach Stance:
  • Step into the shot with your leading foot.
  • Keep your body weight moving forward for power and balance.
• Net Play:
  • Maintain a compact stance to react quickly to fast balls.

6. Movement and Recovery

• Always return to the ready position after each shot.
• Use side shuffles or quick steps to maintain balance and positioning.

By focusing on proper stance techniques and integrating them into your practice sessions, you'll gain more control over your game, improve shot accuracy, and become quicker on the court.